Craps Game Rules
At Playiro, we provide game rules that are easy for everyone to understand. Below, we explain how to play craps, one of the most legendary and exciting casino games.
Created by Adam D Fernsby
How to Play Craps (Dice Game)
Craps is one of the fastest-paced and most thrilling games in any casino. It’s played with two dice on a special table layout. While craps can look intimidating, the basic gameplay is easy to follow once you understand the main bets.
Preparations
- Players: 2 or more. In casinos, a shooter is selected in rotation.
- Dice: Two standard six-sided dice are used.
- Table: Craps table with designated areas for different bets.
- Chips: Players use chips to place bets before the shooter rolls.
- Phases: The game has two main phases:
- Come-Out Roll
- Point Phase
Gameplay
Here is how the game flows:
1. Come-Out Roll
The first roll of a new round is called the Come-Out Roll:
- 7 or 11: Pass Line wins instantly.
- 2, 3, or 12 ("craps"): Pass Line loses.
- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10: That number becomes the point.
2. Point Phase
Once a point is set:
- The shooter tries to roll the point again before rolling a 7.
- If the point is rolled again → Pass Line wins.
- If a 7 comes first → "Seven-Out" → Pass Line loses.
- A new shooter takes over, and the round restarts.
Types of Bets
| Bet Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Pass Line | Bet that the shooter will win. |
| Don’t Pass Line | Bet against the shooter. |
| Come Bet | Similar to Pass Line but placed after the point is set. |
| Don’t Come | Opposite of Come Bet. etting against the dice. |
| Place Bets | Bet a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) will be rolled before a 7. |
| Field Bets | Bet the next roll will land on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. |
| Big 6/8 | Bet a 6 or 8 will roll before a 7. |
| Proposition Bets | High-risk, high-payout bets placed on individual rolls. |
How to Win at Craps
There’s no single overall winner. Your bets determine whether you win or lose.
To increase your odds:
- Stick to Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets; lowest house edge.
- Take advantage of Odds bets whenever possible.
- Avoid high-risk bets like Propositions unless you're playing for fun.
Craps Strategies & Tips
Even if this is a game of luck, there are are tips and strategies to use:
Basic Strategy
- Stick to Pass/Don’t Pass bets → Best odds for beginners.
- Take Odds Bets → These bets have zero house edge.
- Avoid Proposition Bets → High payouts but high house edge.
Advanced Play
- Use Place Bets on 6 and 8 → These hit more often.
- Learn Don’t Come and Lay Bets if you prefer betting against the shooter.
- Manage your bankroll carefully, craps moves fast.
Overview of the Game Rules
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Goal | Predict the outcome of dice rolls |
| Dice | Two standard six-sided dice |
| Come-Out Roll | 7/11 = Win on Pass Line, 2/3/12 = Lose, others set the point |
| Point Phase | Shooter must hit the point again before rolling a 7 |
| Core Bets | Pass Line & Don’t Pass Line |
FAQ
What is the best bet in craps?
The Pass Line with maximum Odds has the lowest house edge and is beginner-friendly.
Is craps hard to learn?
Not at all. Focus on just Pass Line and Odds bets to start and ignore the complex side bets at first.
Can you play craps online?
Yes. Many platforms offer live craps or online craps with virtual dice, often under the category of casino craps.
What is a Come Bet in craps?
A Come Bet is like a mini Pass Line bet placed after the come-out roll. It gets its own point and follows similar rules.
What is a "seven out"?
If the shooter rolls a 7 during the Point Phase before hitting the point again, it’s called a "seven out," and most bets lose.
What is the point in Craps?
In Craps, the point is a target number set after the first roll. The shooter must roll that same number again before rolling a 7 to win the round.